St. Augustine, FL · St. Johns County

Tree Removal in St. Augustine, FL: Cost & Permits

What tree removal actually costs in St. Augustine, whether you need a permit, which inspections apply, and how long the job takes.

Verified August 2026

Typical local cost

$1,400

$500 – $5,500

per tree

$450 – $5,500

Permit fee

$0 – $300

St. Johns County estimate

vs national

0%

local labor & materials

Do you need a permit for tree removal in St. Augustine, FL?

It depends

It depends on scope. Like-for-like cosmetic work in St. Augustine is often exempt, but a permit is required as soon as you change structure, plumbing, electrical or the building envelope.

Historic district properties face additional design review that can add weeks to exterior projects.

Cost breakdown in St. Augustine

Low endSimple scope, competitive bid$500
TypicalMost homeowners land here$1,400
High endComplex access, premium materials$5,500
per tree$450 – $5,500
Permit fee estimate$0 – $300
TimelineSame day to 2 days, 1-4 weeks if a permit is required

Math: national baseline $450$5,500 × St. Augustine cost index 1.00. Permit fees use a 1.00 local multiplier. Estimates, not quotes.

What drives your price here

  • Tree height, species and trunk diameter
  • Proximity to the house and power lines
  • Crane or bucket truck access
  • Stump grinding and debris haul-off
  • Emergency post-storm service

Permit process and inspections

Permit requiredIt depends
Who pulls itContractor or owner-builder
Inspections
DocumentsTree removal permit application in many municipalities, Arborist letter certifying the tree is a danger, where required, Proof of contractor liability insurance
ApplySt. Augustine permit portal

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Florida?

Florida Statute 163.045 lets a residential property owner remove a tree without a local permit when a certified arborist or licensed landscape architect documents that it poses an unacceptable risk. Otherwise, most cities require a permit for protected species above a size threshold.

Tree Removal costs in nearby cities

Sources

Sources & verification

Last verified August 2026. Cost figures are modeled estimates based on national baselines adjusted for local labor and material pricing — they are not quotes. Permit rules change; confirm with the building department before starting work.

Page data quality: 78/100
  • Verified permit status
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